High Court Intervenes in Suspension of Doctors Over Sex Ratio Concerns
The Punjab and Haryana High Court has recently intervened in a significant case involving the suspension of four doctors by the Haryana government. The doctors were accused of inadequate monitoring and implementation of initiatives aimed at improving the state’s sex ratio. The court’s decision, delivered by Justice Sandeep Moudgil, provides temporary relief to the medical professionals while the case is still under review.
State Ordered to Respond to Petitions
In response to the petitions filed by the doctors, Justice Moudgil has issued a notice to the State, demanding a detailed response. The court has mandated that the affected doctors be allowed to return to their respective posts during the interim period. This directive will remain effective until the next hearing, scheduled for October 27.
Suspension Order Temporarily Stayed
The court’s order, dated May 27, states, “Till the next date of hearing, further proceedings pursuant to the suspension order dated 18.05.2026 against the petitioners shall remain stayed.” This temporary stay allows Dr. Vijay Parmar, Dr. Tina Anand, Dr. Parbha Yadav, and Dr. Satypal to continue their duties at various health centers across Haryana.
Arguments Presented by the Petitioners
The doctors, represented by Advocate Himani Anand, contested the suspension, arguing that the action was arbitrary and executed with a preconceived notion, without adequately reviewing the available evidence. The suspension, which took effect on May 18, was part of the disciplinary proceedings initiated by the health department due to the doctors’ perceived failure to effectively monitor and implement measures to improve the state’s sex ratio.
State’s Position and Sex Ratio Statistics
Deputy Advocate General Mayuri Lakhanpal Kalia represented the State in this matter. Reports indicate that Haryana’s Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB) has declined to 895 girls per 1,000 boys in the early months of 2026, highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue.
